Like any other country, South Korea has its fair share of unsafe areas, despite being a popular destination for travellers from all around the world.
When planning a trip to South Korea, it’s important to take into account the country’s crime rate of 3,311 crimes per 100,000 people. This statistic indicates that visitors should exercise caution while travelling in order to ensure their safety and security.
It’s important to note that the crime rate in this country may be a concern for some travellers. However, it shouldn’t discourage you from visiting this beautiful destination. There are still plenty of safe and enjoyable experiences to be had, and by taking precautions and being aware of your surroundings, you can reduce any potential risks.
By planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth and delightful journey to South Korea with no unexpected mishaps.
10 Cities in South Korea That Are Considered Dangerous
Daegu
As soon as you hear the nickname “Gotham Daegu,” you get an idea that the city might not be the safest place to be in.
As per a report on koreaboo.com, this particular city has been ranked as the 10th most unsafe city among 17 regions, with an alarming crime rate.
The rate of non-violent crimes is staggering, sitting at 306.7 per thousand.
According to statistics, South Korea has a high crime rate and this particular area ranks third in the list.
Daegu can be quite overwhelming due to its size as a large city.
In order to ensure your safety while walking, it is advisable to stick to well-populated routes. By doing so, you can significantly reduce the risk of encountering any potential danger. Therefore, it is always better to take precautionary measures and avoid venturing into isolated areas, especially during night-time. By following these simple guidelines, you can enjoy a safe and peaceful walk without any worries.
To ensure the safety of your valuables during your travels, it is recommended to leave any expensive jewelry at home and ensure that the windows in your hotel room are correctly locked before you leave. This simple precautionary measure can go a long way in giving you peace of mind and ensuring the security of your belongings.
ChungCheongbuk-do
Chungcheongbuk-do has a higher crime rate compared to Daegu, making it a less secure location in comparison to our list’s top-ranked area.
The crime rate in this area is relatively high at approximately 1,020 per 100,000 people. This could be attributed to the fact that two cities, Chungju and Cheongj, are included in this region.
If you’re planning to walk or travel, it’s advisable to steer clear from the areas located on the periphery of this region.
In general, these regions are characterized by their smaller roads and less touristy spots.
After sunset, these areas can become particularly hazardous.
Gwangju
When it comes to violent crime, Gwangju has a rate of approximately 106 cases per 10,000.
The rate for non-violent crimes increases to 217.7 per 1000.
The crime rates in this city rank fifth among all the cities in South Korea.
If you’re looking to ensure your safety in this region, it’s recommended that you stick to areas with higher populations.
It’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially when travelling alone. As such, it’s wise to avoid going to places alone at night, just like you would in any city.
Make sure to also acquaint yourself with the areas that locals advise against visiting.
Ulsan
While Ulsan may not be considered as dangerous as certain other areas, there are still certain pockets within the city that can pose a threat to residents and visitors alike.
According to recent statistics, the crime rate for this particular city stands at 107.4 per 10,000 people.
As the hub of South Korea’s industry, it may come across as less accommodating towards tourists compared to other regions.
If you are not familiar with the area, certain parts of it may seem less secure, especially if you are from a different town or country.
Pollution poses a greater safety threat in this region as opposed to crime.
If you happen to suffer from asthma or any other respiratory illnesses, it would be advisable to steer clear of this location entirely.
Gangwon Province
Gangwon, much like the other regions of South Korea, has a relatively safe environment compared to many other places around the world. However, when compared to other parts of Korea, Gangwon may not be as safe.
Keeping yourself informed and vigilant about your surroundings is crucial in this area as it has a crime rate of 108.5 cases per 10,000 people.
To ensure your safety in most South Korean towns, it is advisable to stick to the more populated areas.
In South Korea, the level of safety in a particular area is directly proportional to its level of development or population. This means that less populated or developed areas are often considered less safe according to South Korean standards.
Incheon
In terms of safety, Incheon falls in the middle with a crime rate of 109 cases per 10,000 people.
As you explore Incheon, you might observe that the vicinity around the Art Center has a slightly edgier vibe than other areas in the vicinity.
If you prioritize your safety above all else, it might be best to steer clear of the local motels and opt for a slightly more expensive but secure option like a hotel.
Although motels can serve as a decent temporary accommodation for a night or two, they tend to attract a diverse group of guests.
There are some residents who may have less than honorable intentions in mind.
Busan
Busan has a significantly high crime rate compared to other cities in South Korea, which places it close to the top of the list.
The rate of violent crime in this area is alarmingly high, reaching 408.9 cases per 100,000. In contrast, neighbouring towns and cities experience only a fraction of this crime rate.
If you’re considering a trip to Busan, it’s wise to opt for accommodation in the safer neighbouring towns like Yeongdo or Saha. This way, you can enjoy your stay without worrying about any safety concerns that may arise in Busan.
If you find yourself in Busan, it’s best to stay in areas that are densely populated and located near the city center. This will ensure that you are surrounded by people and can easily access necessary amenities.
If you find yourself in this urban area, there is a higher chance of encountering individuals who are looking to steal from you or cause chaos in your day-to-day life. Be cautious of your surroundings to ensure your safety and peace of mind.
To lessen the risk of losing all your valuable items in the event of theft, it’s a wise practice to keep your credit cards or cash in separate pockets. This measure can be incredibly helpful in safeguarding your belongings.
Certain parts of this region are more secure than others.
When you plan to visit the Jung-gu area, it is important to keep in mind that it is considered one of the less secure areas. Hence, it is crucial to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings while exploring this region.
Daejeon
Daejeon has a relatively high crime rate of 112.34 cases per 10,000 people, making it one of the more unsafe cities in South Korea.
Despite its reputation for offering a high quality of life and minimal traffic, this city is not without its unsafe areas scattered throughout.
Remaining in this area may result in a sensation of increased safety in the downtown and other central regions due to the greater number of individuals inhabiting them.
As you move towards the edges of the city, the expenses of living tend to decrease. However, it’s important to note that there might be a compromise on safety as well.
Seoul
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is often considered the most dangerous city in the country, following the trend of many other nations.
According to statistics, the Jung district stands out with a high crime rate of 377.7 violent crimes per 100,000 individuals.
Visiting Seoul requires caution since it is in the same district as other hazardous areas like Busan and Daegu. It’s important to be vigilant and take necessary safety measures while exploring the city.
To steer clear of violent crime, it’s advisable to stay away from the southwestern areas of Seoul and its surrounding borders.
As a traveller, it’s natural to want to feel safe and secure in your accommodations. That’s why opting for a more expensive lodging option at the heart of the action can bring peace of mind. Not only will you be closer to all the exciting attractions, but you’ll also have the added benefit of feeling secure throughout your stay.
Jeju Island
If you’re planning a trip to South Korea, it’s important to keep in mind that many travellers advise exercising caution when traveling to the Jeju Autonomous Province.
The crime rate in this area is alarming, with a staggering 158 cases per 10,000 people, which is significantly higher compared to other regions.
For almost a decade now, the area has been grappling with the issue of murder, which has proven to be a significant problem.
If you don’t have a particular purpose for visiting this place, it might be best to steer clear of it.
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